I con't figure out the above post about forks being cheaper. Might be referring to some of the bargains on 1.5 steer tube forks lately???

I can feel a significant difference in my bike's handling when dialing down the fork even 25mm. I think what you will find is that it isn't just the HTA change that you will notice. The HTA coupled with the STA is the key. Changing HTA with the same STA will feel different than changing both, ala new bike. Only way to find out for YOU is to ride them.

Agree

I ... it isn't just the HTA change that you will notice. The HTA coupled with the STA is the key. Changing HTA with the same STA will feel different than changing both, ala new bike. .

I think this is really the most crucial factor, HTA in relation to the STA.

Slacken the HTA but steepen the STA to get back into a more climb friendly geom.
Problem is that the this combo of slack HTA and steep STA tends to shorten the reach
and makes bike feels smaller forcing rider into a more upright position as well. Some may like it though.

It is a noticeable difference, but only if everything else stays the same. It's not practical to compare 2 bikes just on head angle. There are so many other factors like wheelbase, BB height, chainstay length, suspension setup, and so on. Just as examples, the Diamondback Sortie is listed as having a HA of 70, but it feels more stable and planted than many bikes I've ridden with 69-68 angles. On the other side of the spectrum, the Specialized Enduro climbs a whole lot better than any bike with a 66.5 HA ought to.

I don't know much about the Foes, but the RS7 is listed as being a DH race frame. That's usually a red flag if you're shopping for an all mountain bike. The FXR is probably a better comparison for the Nomad. I may be wrong though. Like I said, I don't know much abour the RS7 beyond the description. Some DH frames actually make decent heavy duty AM rigs (emphasis on heavy duty).

If you want a slack and low AM bike, I'd recommend the Specialized Enduro and Trek Scratch (in the slack setting). I've ridden both, and they really rip on the trail. Especially the Enduro. The steep seat angle helps with climbing, and the slack HA helps with descending. It's a really sweet combination. I'm sure the Nomad is quite nice also, but I haven't ridden one yet. And of course there's the Diamondback Mission. Mine handles like a dream.